- INTELLIGENT RESISTANCE -
Free. Fair. Fearless. Intelligentsiya is made up of Fiji Islanders who are libertarians in their own way and who cherish the free flow of news, ideas and information and will peacefully resist any attempts by the country's military rulers to stifle free speech. intelligentsiya will also bear witness, report and discuss human rights abuses by the authorities.

"The alleged beating of the escapees is a gross violation of human rights. The rights of all people should be recognised regardless of who they are," she said.

"The Universal Declaration of Human Rights applies to every single person and clearly states that everyone has the right to a fair, independent and public trial (Article 10).

"And that torture, cruelty and degrading treatment or punishment are not allowed (Article 5)."

Ms Ali said although the specifics or extent of the escapees' injuries remain unclear, the threat to their human rights still remains.

"We are concerned about the use of excessive force and brutality because while reports are sketchy it seems these men are unable to appear in court."

The coalition is also questioning the use of what the police have termed "reasonable force".

"We would like to question the involvement of military officers in the apprehending of prison escapees as this is police work and they should have the capacity to do their mandated work with independence and without interference," Ms Ali noted.

She said the fact that there was an ambulance present at the scene could be a possible indicator of intended injury

"We have heard of recent health emergencies where there were no ambulances available and yet in this situation, there was an ambulance ready. This is highly suspicious," she concluded.

The coalition, recognising that the actions of the escapees were indeed "somewhat foolish and they must face the consequences", the law must also hold members of the security forces accountable for their actions associated with the capture of the escapees.